Tessa Matteri, a 4th grader at Madeleine School, at playground that allows children with disabilities to play.

The school last month completed funding for a playground that includes gear for children with disabilities. The money includes a $10,000 grant from the Juan Young Trust.

A surprise donation from a former Madeleine teacher began the project in 2011. Early phases included additions and modifications to the current play structures, allowing children of all physical abilities to enjoy recess and play with families and friends.

After two years of fundraising by the entire Madeleine Parish, the school now will remove the current bark chip ground cover and add a soft but solid surface so wheelchairs can get to the playground equipment.

“We are blessed to have children of all abilities in the classroom here at The Madeleine School and are inspired by their determination and courage," says Susan Steele, the principal. "Their teachers and classmates learn what it truly means to be brave and tenacious when presented with obstacles."

Father Mike Biewend, the pastor, says he is grateful to the entire community for making the open playground possible. The priest thinks of it as a way to serve the entire neighborhood.